An API key is a unique code or token used to authenticate a user, app, or system when making requests to an Application Programming Interface (API). Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Purpose: It helps control who can access the API and what they can do with it.
- How it works: When you make a request to an API (such as fetching data or submitting information), you usually include your API key in the request header or as a parameter.
- Security: API keys help prevent unauthorized use, but they should be kept secret because anyone with your key could access the API with your permissions.
In summary: An API key is like a password that allows you (or your application) to talk to another system’s API securely.